Xpeng, a leading Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker listed on the NYSE under the ticker symbol XPEV, has recently made significant strides in expanding its international presence. In a strategic move to double its global footprint, the company has signed a distributor deal to enter the Bahraini auto market. This development marks a key milestone for Xpeng as it sets its sights on capturing new markets in the Gulf region.
The partnership with Ebrahim K. Kanoo, Bahrain’s largest automotive distributor group, will pave the way for Xpeng to introduce its G6 SUV, G9 SUV, and X9 MPV to Bahraini consumers in the second half of 2025. Leveraging Kanoo’s extensive sales and service network, these Xpeng models are poised to deliver a revolutionary smart mobility experience to local customers.
With nearly 40 percent market share in Bahrain, Kanoo is a prominent player in the country’s automotive industry, operating across multiple sectors. The collaboration with Xpeng signifies a strategic move to tap into the vast potential of the Gulf region for the development of new energy vehicles (NEVs).
Xpeng’s expansion into Bahrain comes on the heels of its successful entry into the United Arab Emirates (UAE) market, with plans to commence vehicle sales in Qatar in the second quarter of this year. The company has set its sights on achieving full coverage of the six Gulf countries – UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain – by 2025.
The company’s foray into the Gulf region is part of its broader strategy to accelerate globalization and expand its presence in international markets. Xpeng currently operates in over 30 countries and aims to increase its global footprint to more than 60 countries and regions this year. Over the next decade, Xpeng plans to derive 50 percent of its sales from overseas markets.
In addition to its expansion in the Gulf region, Xpeng has also ventured into other international markets, such as Indonesia. The company recently announced the commencement of pre-sales for its G6 and X9 models in Indonesia, with plans to establish localized production in the country in the second half of 2025.
Xpeng’s ambitious growth trajectory is underscored by its strong performance in 2024, where it delivered 190,068 vehicles. The company is now aiming to double its deliveries in 2025, with a target of approximately 380,000 units. This bold target reflects Xpeng’s confidence in its product lineup and its ability to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles globally.
In conclusion, Xpeng’s entry into the Bahraini auto market signifies a significant milestone in the company’s global expansion strategy. By forging strategic partnerships and leveraging its innovative EV lineup, Xpeng is well-positioned to capitalize on the burgeoning demand for electric vehicles in the Gulf region and beyond.
